6

Energy Efficiency
Best Practice Guide
Pumping Systems

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

Contents

Introduction

Business benefits of efficient pumping systems

What is your opportunity?

4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

Common problems and measures to improve efficiency
Step 1: Assess your existing pumping system
Step 2: Prioritise opportunities
Step 3: Reduce unnecessary demand
Step 4: Review the pump
Step 5: Review flow rate controls
Step 6: Optimise piping configurations
Step 7: Review the motor
Lack of monitoring and/or documentation

8
8
10
13
14
14
19
20
20
21

5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5

Solution 2 Design a new system

Step 1: Assess production requirements and minimise pumping needs
Step 2: Design with a whole-system approach
Step 3: Design efficient pump stations
Step 4: Select efficient pumping components
Step 5: Iteratively improve your design

23
24
24
24
25
29

Summary of design considerations for pumping systems

30

Selecting a service provider

32

Appendix A

Appendix B

Glossary

33

Further Reading / References

37

Table of Contents

Best Practice Guide

Industrial Refrigeration

List of Figures

Figure 1:
Figure 2:
Figure 3:
Figure 4:
Figure 5:
Figure 6:
Figure 7:
Figure 8:
Figure 9:
Figure 10:
Figure 11:
Figure 12:

Typical proportions in the life cycle cost analysis for a medium-sized industrial pump.
Example of details recorded for a piping system configuration.
Calculating pumping system efficiency.
Centrifugal pump performance curves.
Performance curves for different impellor sizes.
Multiple-speed pump characteristic curves.
Multiple-pump operation.
Average wear trends for maintained and unmaintained pumps.
A simple pumping configuration diagram.
Centrifugal pump types and ranges.
A simplified centrifugal pump characteristic curve.
The duty point of a pump.

5
10
12
16
17
18
18
20
24
25
27
27

List of Tables

Table 1:
Table 2:
Table 3:
Table 4:
Table 5:
Table 6:

Energy costs for various electricity costs in a fully loaded 100 kW motor.
Common pumping problems and measures to improve efficiency
Techniques to lower pump energy consumption.
Indications that a pump is oversized.
Pumping efficiency guide.
Design considerations for efficient pumping systems.

Table of Contents

6
9
13
15
26
29

Best Practice Guide

Industrial Refrigeration

1 Introduction

This document is a step-by-step guide to improving

energy efficiency in pumps and pumping systems for
industry. It provides best practice information on pumps
and pumping systems and outlines where opportunities
for improving system performance and efficiency will
lead to benefits for your business.
There are several questions or issues that organisations
commonly have relating to pumping systems, including:
What are the basic components and principles of
pumping systems?
How can I tell if the pumping system is functioning
efficiently?
What are the areas where pumping systems can be
improved to operate more efficiently?

Introduction

By following this guide, you will be able to determine the

changes that can be made to improve the performance
of equipment, reduce operating costs and improve
environmental outcomes.
The guide has been developed to lead decision makers
and service providers through system changes; it is not
intended to be a thorough technical guide. References
for more detailed technical information are provided.

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

2 Business benefits of efficient

pumping systems
Existing pumping systems can provide an excellent
opportunity for efficiency improvements, because
pump system designs are sometimes difficult to
optimise before installation. In addition, design efforts
are sometimes focused on minimising capital costs or
the chances of system failure. As a result, energy and
maintenance costs may not be fully considered.

Initial costs

Energy costs
Maintenance
costs

According to some sources, energy and maintenance

costs will account for over 5095% of pump ownership
costs1, 2 with initial costs less than 15% of pump life
cycle costs. 1
Furthermore, industrial pumping systems that have
been in operation for a long time may have experienced
changes to pumping requirements over their lifetime, as
systems move away from their design conditions. Pumping
system efficiency improvements of this sort may have
simple payback periods of several weeks to a few years.

Business benefits of efficient pumping systems

Other costs

Figure 1: Typical proportions in the life cycle cost

analysis for a medium-sized industrial pump.3

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

When selecting a new pump, due consideration should

be given to the pump life cycle cost (LCC), including
maintenance, energy and initial costs. A quality, reliable,
well-built pump that is efficient will likely have a lower
LCC than a cheaper, lightweight pump, even if the
lighter pump is slightly more efficient.
Improvements in efficiency of pumping systems can also:

Improving the efficiency of just one pump can save

substantial energy. For example, a continuously
operated centrifugal pump, driven by a fully loaded
100 kW motor, requires 973,000 kWh per year and
costs more than $97,000 to operate, assuming average
electricity costs of 10 cents per kWh and a 90% motor
efficiency. With a 20% reduction in operating costs,
savings of $19,400 per year can be realised. Table 1
below illustrates the energy costs of operating this pump.

reduce energy costs

reduce maintenance requirements
more closely match pumping system capacity to
production requirements.
For many organisations, the environmental impact of
their operations is becoming increasingly important.
Improving the efficiency of pumping systems is one
way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and preserve
natural resources.

Table 1: Energy costs for various electricity costs in a fully loaded 100 kW motor. 4
Operating Time Electricity Costs in a Fully Loaded 100 kW Motor

8 c/kW
10 c/kW
12 c/kW

14 c/kW

1 hour

$9

$11

$13

$16

24 hours

$213

$267

$320

$373

1 month

$6493

$8117

$9740

$11,363

1 year

$77,920

$97,400

$116,880

$136,360

Business benefits of efficient pumping systems

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

3 What is your opportunity?

Delivering the best outcome for your business requires

a whole systems approach to the design, installation,
operation and maintenance of your pumping systems.
Defining the limitations of your current pumping system
is the key to finding the best solution to achieving
energy efficiency for your business:
How do I make my existing system more efficient?
Do I need some new pumping or pump system
components?
How do I expand my existing system?
What do I need to know to install a new system?

If your service requirements have changed, for example,

there have been significant upgrades to theprocess
plant or equipment, you may need to install more
efficient equipment or expand your pumping system.
This will involve elements of both solutions. Firstly,
ensure your existing system is running efficiently
(Solution 1) and secondly, design the new components
of the expanded system (Solution 2). Following this
process will ensure that you are not wasting money
purchasing more than you actually need. Additionally,
information gained from reviewing efficiency may guide
the selection and design of the new components of
the system

This guide offers step-by-step solutions to help you

identify opportunities to implement best practice to
achieve energy efficiency of your pumping system.
Solution 1: Improve the efficiency of your
existing system
Is your pumping system fulfilling needs but could
run more efficiently? This process may only involve a
smallinvestment, but can provide significant savings
and costs.
Solution 2: Design a new system
If you are planning a new pumping system, this
process outlines the steps required to ensure you
achieve excellent design and to help you understand
where to spend your valuable capital.

What is your opportunity?

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

4 Solution 1 Improve the efficiency

of your existing system
A suggested process to follow for improving the
efficiency of your pumping system is summarised
as follows:

Step 1
Assess &
analyse your
existing system

Step 2
Prioritise
opportunities

Step 3
Reduce
unnecessary
demand

Step 4
Review your
pump

Step 5
Review flow
rate controls

Step 6
Optimise piping
configurations

Step 7
Review your
motor

4.1 Common problems and

measures to improve efficiency
Studies indicate that the average pumping efficiency
inmanufacturing plants can be less than 40%, with
10% of pumps operating below 10% efficiency.3, 5, 6
Oversized pumps and the use of throttled valves
wereidentified as the two major contributors to the
loss of efficiency. Energy savings in pumping systems
of between 30% and 50% could be realised through
equipment or control system changes.

In some pumping systems, these inefficiencies are

often not readily apparent, and opportunities to
improveefficiency and save energy by repairing or
replacing components and optimising systems are
sometimes overlooked.
Common pumping system problems and measures
to improve efficiency are summarised in Table 2,
withmore detail in sections 4.4 to 4.9.

A pumps efficiency can also degrade during normal

operation due to wear by as much as 10% to 25%
before it is replaced. 6 Efficiencies of 50% to 60%
orlower are quite common. 6

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

Table 2: Common pumping problems and measures to improve efficiency4

Common Problem

Potential Measures to Improve Efficiency

Unnecessary demand
on pumping system

Reduce demand on system

Oversized pumps

Select pump that operates near to BEP

Change impeller
Trim impeller
Fit multiple-speed pump
Use multiple-pump arrangements
Fit lower speed pump/motor

Pump wear

Pump maintenance

Less efficient impeller

Change impeller

Inefficient pump throttling controls

As for oversized pumps

Fit adjustable or variable-speed drive

Inefficient piping configuration

Change piping inefficiencies

Oversized motor

Change motor

Inefficient motor

Change to high-efficiency motor

Lack of monitoring and/or

documentation

Install monitoring
Conduct a survey

Change in pumping requirements

With existing pumping systems, service requirements
can change, often following significant upgrades to
process plant and equipment. Installation of more efficient
equipment can lead to reduced pumping needs.
Solutions to changes in service requirements depend
on the direction of the change. If the flow rate and
system head requirements were to decrease with the
installation of more efficient equipment or processing,
then the solutions would be similar to that for an oversized
pump. If the service requirements were to increase, then
similar solutions but opposite in direction may apply.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

In this situation, before looking at increasing the

pumpsize to meet the BEP (best efficiency point
referto section 4.5.2), one of the first things that
shouldbe looked at is the piping system and if any
efficiency improvements can be made to the pipework
to make itmore direct, or if increasing pipework sizing
might allow an undersized pump to operate closer to
itsBEP. For more on this important element of pumping
efficiency, refer to section 5.4.1 in Solution 2. The cost
and difficulty of making piping changes would need
to be assessed and compared to that of increasing
the pump size or installing a whole new system.
Thisshouldbe discussed with your service provider.

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

4.2 Step 1: Assess your existing

pumping system

4.2.1 Assess production trends

An assessment of the production trends includes asking
questions such as:

A good approach to assessing and improving your

pumping system is to take a whole-system approach,
meaning that you look at the entire pumping system
from need to delivery or wire to water (meaning the
efficiency of converting electricity into movement of
fluid). In the life cycle of a pumping system, there will be
opportunities to improve pumping system performance.
Two of the main opportunities are when:

What flow rates and system head are currently

needed for production processes?
Where is it needed?
When is it needed (time of day or event)?
Why is it needed?
What flow rate and system head may be needed
in the future?

An existing pumping system is being modified to

solvea system problem or to implement a flow rate
and/or system head change.
A new pumping system is being designed
andinstalled.
These are both ideal times to create an energy efficient
system. There are two general approaches to assessing
existing pumping systems. The first consists of observing
the operation of the pumping system and the second
consists of collecting system data and performing
detailed calculations using a suitable pump system
modelling tool. The first approach relies on observations
of the system; the second deals with creating an accurate
model of the system and then calculating the flow rate
and system head within the model.

The answers to the questions above, combined with

asurvey of the pumping system as described below
insection 4.2.2 would identify:
where the fluid is being used in the pumping system
whether all of the uses are effective or if some are
wasteful and unnecessary
the maximum pumping requirements now and
inthe future
the variation in pumping requirements now and
inthe future.

Observing the operating system over a period of time

allows the observer to view how the actual system
is working during a range of operating conditions.
Inmanycases, system operational requirements limit
the range of operating conditions that can be explored.
By developing a model of the system, a comparison
can be made between the system resistance curve
and the pump characteristic curves to determine
the operating point of the pump. Regardless of the
approach adopted, the objective is to gain a clear
picture of how the system and the system components
operate and to see where improvements can be made
to optimise the operation of the system.
These two approaches are combined in the following
suggested strategy for the assessment of your existing
pumping system.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

Figure 2: Example of details recorded for a piping

system configuration.7

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

To review the pumping system,

the survey team should:
Gather data to define the pumping system configuration
(refer to Figure 2).
Find out the costs of energy and estimate the cost
ofrunning the pump (refer to Table 1).
Gather pump and drive motor nameplate information
and determine the pump drive, operating speed and
the number of pump stages.
Document operating times and measure or note
theactual flow rate with time to develop profiles
ofwhen the pump operates.
Measure the pump inlet and outlet pressures.
Note or determine the design system maximum
andvariation in flow rate and system head.
Identify the fluid being pumped, its temperature,
viscosity, solids concentration and particle size,
density or specific gravity and other inputs needed
forthe pump system modelling software.
Obtain flow rate versus system head characteristic
curves (if available) from the pump manufacturers to
assess the pumping system design and operating points.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

Look for designs that are associated with inefficient

pump operation, including:
throttle control valves to provide fixed or variable
flow rates
pumping systems with bypass flow
pumps that may be oversized in that they operate
ina highly throttled condition or with large bypass
flow rates
pumping systems that operate with large flow rate
or pressure variations
low flow rate, high-pressure end use applications.
An entire pumping system may be operated at high
pressure to meet the requirements of a single end use.
a change in the pumping system configuration from
initial design conditions that may change the original
system resistance curve.
Note maintenance conditions that are associated
withinefficient pump operation, including:
pumps with high maintenance requirements
noisy pumps due to cavitation or internal
recirculation
wear on pump impellers and casings that increase
clearances between fixed and moving parts
excessive wear on wear rings and bearings
improper packing adjustment that causes binding
on the pump shaft
noisy control valves due to excessive throttling.
measure the pump efficiency.

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

Measuring pump efficiency

Traditional Technique
In a permanent monitoring installation, provision needs
to be made to the pumping system in order to measure
pump efficiency. At a minimum, pressure tappings need
to be fitted at either side of the pumps (avoid regions of
disturbed flow due to flanges and other obstructions).
For critical pumps, efficiency could be continuously
monitored using ammeters to measure drive motor
current, inlet and outlet pressure gauges, kWh meters
on large pumps and a reliable flow meter. Electronic
data logging may also be worthwhile where running
costs and water costs are high.
Thermodynamic Technique
Using the installation of temporary pressure probes
andsensitive temperature probes capable of
measuringmillidegrees at the inlet and outlet of
thepump, it is possible to determine the energy
losses; thatis, energynot converted to water flow
andpressure, hencethe efficiency of the pump.
Together, with a measure of the power used
bythepump, the flow ratecan be calculated.2

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

Pumping System Efficiency

System efficiency incorporates the efficiencies of the
pump, motor, and other system components, as
outlined by the dashed line in Figure 3.

Grid

Station
transformer

Recirc line

MCC
Pump
Motor

Figure 3: Calculating pumping system efficiency. 6

sys = Qreq Hreq SG

4600 Pe

where: Qreq = required fluid flow rate (L/min)

Hreq = required pump head (m)
SG = specific gravity of the pumped fluid
Pe = electrical power input (kW)

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

4.2.3 Analyse your pumping system

The most common approach to analyse the current
system is to use pump system design software. It can
also be done using manual calculations and graphically
by hand or with spreadsheets.
The design software uses the input of fluid properties,
pumping system configuration and data provided by
the pump manufacturers to determine friction losses,
generate the system resistance curves and provide
a listing of suitable pumps. The software is often
linked topump-selection software from a particular
manufacturer. In some cases, the software allows
theevaluation of operating costs.
By developing a model of the system, the system
resistance curve and the pump characteristic curves
can be overlapped to determine the current operating
points of the pump for the range of the system
requirements. This then allows a comparison to be
made between the range of operating points to the
bestefficiency point (refer to section 4.5.2).

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

4.3 Step 2: Prioritise opportunities

Once opportunities for improving the pumping system
efficiency have been identified during the assessment,
they should be prioritised or pre-screened so that those
areas with greater efficiency improvements and highest
energy savings can be realised.
Table 3 indicates the relative savings that are possible,
and is a guide to where priorities should be in order
toachieve the highest savings. These priorities
wouldalso be influenced by the degree of mismatch
betweenactual system conditions and pump design
conditions assumed.
Table 3: Techniques to lower pump
energy consumption.8
Energy Savings Method

Savings

Replace throttling valves with speed controls

1060%

Reduce speed for fixed load

540%

Install parallel system for highly variable loads

1030%

Replace motor with a more efficient model

13%

Replace pump with a more efficient model

12%

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

4.4 Step 3: Reduce

unnecessary demand
Demand on a pumping system can be reduced by:
reducing consumption
reducing leaks
lowering pumping system flow rate
lowering the operating pressure
operating the system for a shorter period of time
each day
having the system off when not needed.
Unnecessary demand is placed on the pumping system
when the pumping system operates all of the time, even
when flow demands may be variable and intermittent or
not required at all.
For example, although equipment such as furnaces
mayrequire continuous cooling, other equipment
involved in intermittent processes may not require
cooling when not operating. Simple on-off controls
can be added inexpensively in these cases.
Pumping systems can sometimes be set to supply
maximum demand flows when flow needs are variable
and intermittent. If the demand on pumping systems
is reduced, unnecessary pumps may be able to be
shut down.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

4.5 Step 4: Review the pump

4.5.1 Oversized pump
If the original design was too conservative, oversize
capacity pumps may have been selected:
to accommodate future increases in plant capacity
because pumping requirements were not
fully understood
to allow for fall off in pump efficiency through wear
to allow for frictional losses in the pipework system
through fouling, which may occur as the system ages
from the range of available pumps by choosing the
next highest pump or a less efficient impeller so that
alarger impeller could be fitted in the future.
In doing this, designers err on the side of safety
by adding higher pump flow and/or system head
capacitythan necessary, creating an imbalance
between pump capacity and the pumping system
requirements. Thatimbalance causes the system to
operate inefficiently, resulting in a higher life cycle cost.
A pump may be incorrectly sized for current
requirements if it:
operates under throttled conditions
has a high bypass flow rate
has a flow rate that varies by more than 1020%
from its BEP flow rate.

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

Oversized pumps result in higher pumping system

electricity costs and require more frequent maintenance
than properly sized pumps. This is due to excess
flow energy increasing the wear and tear on system
components, resulting in valve damage, piping stress,
and excess system operation noise including flow noise
and pipe vibration. There are also increased system
maintenance costs associated with oversized pumps.
Therefore, selecting a pump of correct size to begin
with, or even replacing an over-engineered pump, can
be a cost effective exercise. An oversized pump can be
identified by the characteristics described in Table 4 below.

It should be noted that pumps can also be undersized

due to increased system demand and this is also a
common problem. It can be seen on the efficiency
curvein Figure 4 that a pump operating beyond its
BEP will also experience increased noise and vibration.
Running a pump inefficiently will reduce its life.

Table 4: Indications that a pump is oversized. 9

Characteristics of an
Oversized Pump

Description

Excessive flow noise Oversized pumps cause flow-induced pipe vibrations, resulting in excessive noise
and increased damage to pipework (including flanged connections, welds and
piping supports)
Highly throttled flow Pumps tend to remain in more restrictive positions in systems with oversized pumps;
control valves
this increases backpressure, further decreasing efficiency
Frequent replacement Increased backpressures from increased flow rates creates high radial and thrust
of bearings and seals
bearing loads as well as high pressures on packing glands and mechanical seals
Heavy use of bypass lines A system that heavily uses bypass lines indicates that the system has either
oversized pumps, is not balancing properly, or both
Intermittent pump operation Pumps being used for purposes such as filling or emptying tanks that run very
intermittently indicate oversizing and hence suffer increased start/stop inefficiencies
and wear, as well asincreased piping friction

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

4.5.2 Pump best efficiency point (BEP)

A pump is generally oversized when it is not operated
at or within 20% of its BEP, although it is normally
considered acceptable if the duty point falls within 50%
to 110% of the BEP flow rate. This allows for a greater
margin for error in the event that the system designer
overestimated the actual resistance curve.7

Reading the figure

In Figure 4, the BEP of this pump, operating at 9.45 L/s and 36 m
differential head, is around 70% efficiency, and it consumes around 13.5 kW.

Each centrifugal pump has a BEP at which its

operatingefficiency is highest and its radial bearing
loads are lowest. At or near its BEP, a pump operates
most cost effectively in terms of both energy efficiency
and maintenance.9

When operating a pump at flow rates higher than the BEP (that is, to the
right of the dotted line), the effects are low efficiency, increased power
needs, noise and vibration, giving reduced life due to increased radial
loads on bearings.

In practical applications, operating a pump continuously

at its BEP is not likely, because pumping systems
usually have changing flow rate and system head
requirements and demands. Selecting a pump with
a BEP that is close to the systems normal operating
range can result in significant operating cost savings. 9
The performance of a pump is typically described
by a graph plotting the pressure generated by the
pump (measured in terms of head) against flow rate.
Aperformance curve for a typical centrifugal pump
is shown in Figure 4.
As a pumps differential pressure increases, the flow
rate decreases accordingly. The rate of this decrease
isa function of the pump design and is important in
pump selection. A typical performance curve indicates
the pumps efficiency and power, which may be in
brake horsepower (bhp). The efficiency of a pump is
theratio of the pumps fluid power to its shaft power
that is the required motor power.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

The likely effects of a pump operating at flow rates lower than the BEP
(that is, to the left of the dotted line) are low efficiency, noise and vibration,
giving reduced life due to increased radial loads on bearings and temperature
rise due to dissipated energy created by low efficiency. Some of the
common measures to rectify this are to use a smaller pump, a smaller
multi-stage pump or to install bypass piping.

Increased power,
lower efficiency,
noise, vibration

Temp rise,
lower efficiency,
noise, vibration
60
54

Performance curve

48
42
BEP

Head 36
(m)
30

Efficiency (%)

Efficiency

70
60
50

24

40

18

30

12

bhp

20

6
0

12

10
0

6.3

12.6

bhp
(kW)

3
0

18.9

Flow (L/s)

Figure 4: Centrifugal pump performance curves.

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Pumping Systems

4.5.3 Change impeller

For each pump, there are usually several impeller sizes
available from the manufacturer. Figure 5 illustrates the
different performance characteristics and hence BEP
with each impeller size.
Impeller sizes

78%

180

160

76%
74%

140
Head
(ft)

Iso-efficiency lines

200

120

100
Head/flow curves

80
60
40
20

Trimming an impeller should be considered if any

of the following conditions occur9:
Many system bypass valves are open, indicating
thatexcess flow is available to system equipment.
Excessive throttling is needed to control flow through
the system or process.
High levels of noise or vibration indicate excessive flow.
A pump is known to be operating far from its BEP.
Trimming should be limited to about 75% of a pumps
maximum impeller diameter, because excessive
trimming can result in a mismatched impeller and casing9.
As the impeller diameter decreases, added clearance
between the impeller and the fixed pump casing
increases internal flow recirculation, causing head
lossand lowering pumping efficiency.

0
0

50

100

150

200

250

Flow (gpm)

Figure 5: Performance curves for different

impellor sizes.9
Impeller size should be selected for highest efficiency
from the isoefficiency lines for the likely operating
requirements of flow and head. Where the BEP is not
achievable from the available impellers, trimming can
beundertaken.
Impeller trimming
Impeller trimming refers to the process of reducing the
diameter of an impeller by machining it. The reduction
in diameter reduces the energy imparted to the fluid
and hence the flow rate and system head capacity.
Thisoption is sometimes used when the impeller size
needed to ensure a pump operates close to its BEP is
not available from the manufacturer. The only other
alternative would be to use a smaller, less effective
impeller from the pump manufacturer or replace the
entire pump assembly.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

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4.5.4 Multiple-speed pumps

Multiple-speed pumps can be used to handle varying
load conditions and maintain some efficiency, similar
to variable-speed drives (VSDs), in that the energy
imparted to the pump system fluid can be matched
to the demands of the system.
Efficiency of multiple-speed pumps is generally
less than single-speed pumps at their operation
point, buttheir ability to cover a range of conditions
improvesoverall performance where varying flow
ratesare required.
Shifting a pump to higher or lower speeds moves the
entire characteristic curve up or down respectively,
asshown in Figure 6 below.

4.5.5 Multiple-pump arrangements

A single pump is unable to consistently operate close
to its BEP with a wide variation in system requirements.
Multiple pumps consisting of several smaller pumps
in combination can be used to serve the pumping
requirements of a system, particularly those with large
differences between the flow rate required during normal
system operation and that required during maximum
system flow conditions.
The advantages in using combinations of smaller pumps
rather than a single large one are9:
operating flexibility
redundancy in case of a pump failure
lower maintenance requirements due to pumps
operating near their BEP
higher efficiency.

200
180

Operators should use caution when operating pumps

in parallel to ensure that the minimum flow requirement
is met for each pump. As can be seen in the Figure
7 (illustrative only), using several pumps in parallel
broadens the range of flow that can be delivered
to the system.

System curve

High speed

160
Head
(ft)

140
120
Medium speed

100
80
60

Pump curves

Low speed

40
20
0
0

50

100

150

200

250

It should also be noted that pumps used at the same

time should have identical performance characteristics.
Pumps with differing performance curves operating
in parallel cannot both operate at their BEP and the
likelihood of system failure is greatly increased.
200

Flow (gpm)

180

Figure 6: Multiple-speed pump characteristic

curves.9

160
140

The advantages of multiple-speed pumps are9:

They have the capability to operate over a wide range
of conditions, although they tend to perform less efficiently
at any given operating point than single-speed pumps.
Compact operating package avoids the additional
piping and valves required for parallel pumps.

Head
(ft)

Pump curves

120

System curve

100
80

Three pumps running

60
40

Two pumps running

One pump running

20
0
0

50

100

150

200

250

Flow (gpm)

Figure 7: Multiple-pump operation.9

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

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Continuous operation or frequent starts of oversized

pumps that have been designed to handle the maximum
design system conditions can lead to low-efficiency
operation and maintenance problems. Instead, a single
smaller pump can be installed to handle normal operating
conditions. The large pumps are then used as required
to cope with the maximum design flow rate.

4.6 Step 5: Review flow

rate controls
To accommodate variations in demand, flow rate can
be controlled by any of four methods9:
bypass lines
throttle valves
multiple pump arrangements
adjustable speed drives and variable-speed drive motors.
Adjustable-speed drives or variable-speed drives are
an efficient solution to control flow rate, however, they
should be used with caution, as discussed in section
4.6.3 below. There are still many cases where a
centrifugal pump with a fairly flat performance curve
can deliver reasonable efficiencies when flow through
them is controlled by a flow control device.
4.6.1 Bypass lines
Bypass lines provide accurate flow control while
avoiding the danger of deadheading a pump.
Deadheading is the condition in which a pumps
flowiscompletely choked off by closed downstream
valves. Unfortunately, bypassing flow is usually the
leastenergy-efficient flow control option.9
4.6.2 Throttle valves
Throttle valves provide flow control in two ways:
byincreasing the upstream backpressure, which
reduces pump flow, and by directly dissipating fluid
energy. By increasing the backpressure on a pump,
throttle valves make a pumping system less efficient. In
low-static pressure systems, variable-speed operation
allows the pump to run near its BEP for a given flow
rateand system head. 9

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

4.6.3 Adjustable-speed drives or

variable speed drives
In pumping systems with variable flow rate requirements,
adjustable speed drives (ASDs) and variable-speed
drives (VSDs) are an efficient alternative pumping
system control to throttling or bypass methods.
They are the preferred option when pumps operate
for at least 2000 hours per year and process flow rate
requirements vary by 30% or more over time.6
ASDs or VSDs save energy by varying the pumps
rotational speed. Reducing the pump speed means
lessenergy is imparted to the fluid and less energy
needs to be throttled or bypassed. However, they do
not save energy in applications that operate close to
fully loaded most of the time, due the lower adjustable
and VSD efficiencies.
Adjustable or variable-speed drives come in two
common types:
Mechanical variable-speed drives including
hydraulic clutches, fluid couplings, and adjustable
belts and pulleys.
Electrical variable-speed drives including eddy
current clutches, wound-rotor motor controllers,
and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
Neither the mechanical or electrical VSDs are 100%
efficient. If the mechanical speed drives are not
maintained for example, the belts are not kept tight
their efficiency can drop by 5% or so.
Installations using VSDs also lose some efficiency and
operating life of the electric motors. Typically, VSDs on
smaller power level installations average 90% efficiency;
the motor efficiency they control can drop by 4%; and
the life expectancy of the motor can be reduced to
about 70% of an installation without a VSD. Due to
these inefficiencies, motors can be noisier, run hotter,
have higher vibration levels and are therefore prone
toshorter mean times between failure.

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4.6.4 Multiple-speed motors

Multiple-speed motors contain a different set of
windings for each motor speed; consequently, they
aremore expensive and less efficient than single-speed
motors. Multiple-speed motors also lack subtle
speed-changing capabilities within discrete speeds.9
4.6.5 Pump wear and maintenance
Effective, regular pump maintenance keeps pumps
operating efficiently and allows for early detection of
problems in time to schedule repairs and to avoid early
pump failures. Regular maintenance avoids losses in
efficiency and capacity, which can occur long before
apump fails.

The main areas to look for pump wear are:

cavitation or internal recirculation
pump impellers and casings that increase clearances
between fixed and moving parts
wear rings and bearings
packing adjustment on the pump shaft.
When a pump wears, it tends to shift the BEP to the left
on the pump characteristic curves (refer to Figure 4).

The main cause of wear and corrosion is high

concentrations of particulates and low pH values.
Wear can create a drop in wire to water efficiency of
unmaintained pumps by around 1012.5%. Much of
the wear occurs in the first few years, until clearances
become similar in magnitude to the abrading particulates.
Referring to Figure 8, it can be seen that it tends to
level out after 10 years. Catastrophic failure can occur
around 20 years.2

Original efficiency
Restored efficiency
1012.5%
Maintained

Unmaintained
Efficiency

Replacement
pump needed

New

10 years
Time in service

Figure 8: Average wear trends for maintained and

unmaintained pumps.2

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

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4.7 Step 6: Optimise piping

configurations
Optimisation of piping configurations is best done
during the initial design of the pumping system and
when modifications are made. Key steps in optimising
the piping configuration of a pumping system are:
Determine the proper pipe diameter to maximise flow
rates while minimising the loss due to friction.
Design a piping system layout that minimises pressure
drops by avoiding sharp bends, expansions and
contractions by keeping piping as straight as possible.
Select low-loss valves and fittings. In determining the
optimum pipe size, the following competing factors
need to be taken into account:
the initial cost of the pipe, which is higher for larger
diameter pipes
the cost of pushing fluid through it, which is lower
for larger diameter pipes due to the lower friction loss.
Unfortunately, designers can overlook the energy
costsof using small piping, focusing instead on
the initial cost. With valves, often the selection
of a particular type of valve is guided by service
requirements. For example, globe valves are usually
selected because of their low cost and simplicity.9
However, these valves have a relatively high flow loss
coefficient caused by the flow path through the valve.

Solution 1 Improve the efficiency of your existing system

4.8 Step 7: Review the motor

4.8.1 Oversized motors
An oversized motor runs inefficiently and can be
determined by comparing the actual power draw
to thenameplate rating. Oversized motors may be
specified for the following reasons:
insurance against motor failure in critical processes
ability to increase production/pump capacity in the
future (increased motor load)
load fluctuation (larger motors can override these
without dropping out)
voltage imbalance (increased motor losses).
When specifying an oversized motor, there is an
increased cost resulting from the higher motor purchase
cost and the increased energy costs, due to a decrease
in efficiency at part-load operation.
It should be noted that induction motors are only
available in certain sizes. It is reasonable to operate a
motor at 75%100% load and still achieve reasonable
efficiencies. For example, if calculations show a load
requirement of 50 kW, a 55 kW motor will have to be
used, as this is a standard, manufactured size. When a
motor is used for a noncritical, constant-load application,
it should be sized as closely as possible to a 100% load.
Manufacturers have developed motors to accommodate
short-term overloads and prevent the need to oversize.
These motors are labelled as having a service factor
greater than 1.0. They have the ability to operate
satisfactorily at the service factor load with slightly
reduced efficiency. For example, a motor labelled with
a service factor of 1.15 can operate close to maximum
efficiency at 115% load.10

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4.8.2 High-efficiency motors

It is important to appreciate that motor-driven equipment
accounts for approximately two-thirds of electricity
consumption. Efficient motors and VSDs can offer major
energy savings and short paybacks, with efficiency gains
of between 1% and 3% possible with the use of
energy-efficient motors (EEMs).
In the last 20 years, research and development into
improving motor construction and manufacturing
techniques have resulted in improvements in full-load
efficiencies of 2.5% (that is, a 10 kW energy efficient
motor is typically 3% more efficient).
Mandatory minimum energy performance standards
(MEPS) established by government are a part of
the Australian Standards with relevance to pumping
under AS/NZS 1359.5:2004 Part 5: Three phase cage
induction motors High efficiency and minimum energy
performance standards11. This Standard applies to
three-phase cage induction motors with ratings from
0.73 kW and up to, but not including, 185 kW with 2, 4,
6 or 8 poles.12 The scope covers motors of rated voltages
up to 1100 V a.c.
The Standard is often updated and regulation dates
for the period of cover are provided in tables within
theStandard. The larger the size of the motor the
higherthe efficiency requirements are. A tool to
quicklyfind the efficiency of motors is available at:
www.environment.gov.au/settlements/energyefficiency/
motors/meps.html

EEMs have the following advantages:

reduced breakdown of motors as a result of improved
design and construction, giving many years of service
beyond the initial payback period
significant savings as a result of selecting, purchasing
and effectively operating the correct motor for an
application
reduced sensitivity of the power factor and efficiency
to voltage and load fluctuations.
The benefits of using EEMs are illustrated in the following
worked example.
Motor costs comparison worked example
An average electric motor uses 50 times its initial cost in
electrical energy over a 1015 year life. A $1000 motor
will use $50,000 of energy over a 1015 year period.
Saving 10% on the purchase price of a $1000 standard
motor saves $100. But spending $1250 on a motor that
is 5% more efficient saves 5% of $50,000, or $2500.10
4.9 Lack of monitoring and/or documentation
Owners of pumping installations may not have
documentation on the original design of the pumping
installation, such as the pump characteristic curves
andthe assumed system requirements.
Subsequent to installation, records of any modifications
may also have been lost. Without this information,
itisdifficult to monitor and maintain the pumping
system performance.

Appendix B Methods for estimating compressor energy consumption9

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5 Solution 2 Design
a new system
A good pumping system design will consider all the
elements of a pumping system, including how to
minimise the need for pumping in the first place.
Many of the principles outlined in Solution 1 can be used
in designing a new system. However, with a completely
new set of components, there is greater potential for
optimal design.
A suggested process to follow when designing a new
pumping system is as follows:

Step 1
Assess production
requirements &
minimise needs

Step 2
Design with
whole-systems
approach

Solution 2 Design a new system

Step 3
Design efficient
pump stations

Step 4
Select efficient
pumping
components

Step 5
Improve your
design

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Step 1: Assess production

5.1
requirements and minimise
pumping needs
Ensuring an efficient production process will often mean
that you dont need to supply as many plant services,
such as cooling or heating water. Hence, a key way to
minimise pumping needs is to build an efficient process
or plant. This may mean:
Use well-insulated cooling or heating tunnels,
buildings and pipework (pumps are used in
refrigeration and cooling circuits including brine
pumps and cooling towers, as well as heating
circuitsand air conditioning systems).
Use water-efficient processes and equipment.
Use less compressed air (pumps are often used
incompressor cooling circuits).
Minimise the distance (vertical and horizontal)
fromtheplant to the location of any pumps that
arerequired to support that process.
Re-use water or process fluids near to the end use.

5.2 Step 2: Design with a

whole-system approach
An efficient new pumping system will meet the
requirements of flow rate and system head with
minimum energy consumption.
This means considering:
Energy prices ensure that the latest energy price
forecasts are used in calculating the energy operating
costs. This will strongly influence the selection of pipe
sizes, motors and pump efficiencies.
Piping layout consider the potential for long-term
scale build up and provide maintenance access
for cleaning. Ensure the layout supports the use
of variable-speed drives rather than requiring fixed
speedpumps to operate.
Pump station layout in the case where you have
multiple pump stations, is the most efficient pump
station used ahead of the others? How do pump
stations interact with each other?

Solution 2 Design a new system

Maximum, minimum and variable flow rates use

variable-speed drives coordinated with a limited
use of control valves, rather than fixed-speed
pumpsworking with throttling or bypass valves.
Alternatively, use multiple-speed pumps or a
number of smaller, fixed-speed pumps. Which will
give betterprocess control and efficiency for your
operation? Manydesigners oversize pumps to cater
forunknown pumping loads and build in a performance
safety margin. Encourage your designer to design
a system that responds efficiently to a range of flow and
head conditions, and that can be easily expanded
later if required.
Control philosophy design a control system that always
selects pumps that use the least amount of energy.
Dont assume that a typical duty-standby arrangement
is least cost when energy is taken into account,
particularly if one pump is more efficient than another.
Install metering and monitoring ensure the performance
can be tracked over time.
Optimise the design.

5.3 Step 3: Design efficient

pump stations
You may have used the right energy price, pipe layout
and control philosophy, but are the pumps within a
pump station working with or against each other?
If there are multiple pumps, are they the right sizes
for theflow requirements? Is the station flexible?
Doyou have one variable-speed pump supported by
fixedspeed pumps? Alternatively, if you have relatively
low flow requirements, punctuated by large surges,
doyou have a small, continuous-duty pump supported
by a larger surge pump to deal with the surges (rather
thanone large surge pump operating sporadically)?

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5.4 Step 4: Select efficient

pumping components
Pumping systems are assembled from a number of
components common to all installations, including
pumps, pump drives, controllers, piping and valves.
There are two main areas of losses in pumping systems:
Piping friction losses total friction head losses
through all pipes, including component losses (inlet,
bends, joins, valves, contractions and expansions in
pipework and outlet losses).
Pump and motor inefficiencies pay attention to
pump and impeller sizing, motor selection and pump
efficiency options.

Fluid flowing through a pipe experiences resistance

or friction losses, which results in head loss. This is
caused by the roughness of the interior of the pipe
and the diameter of the pipe, as well as the valves,
fittings and changes of direction (it also depends
onthetemperature and type of pumped fluid).
Pipinglosses can be minimised by:
minimising distance and head
minimising turns and the degree of turns
correct pipe sizing
correct piping material.

The design process is an iterative process. In terms of

design steps, piping layouts are generally considered
first so that head loss can be calculated before pumps
are selected.
5.4.1 Design and select piping
A new system design is assisted by the generation
of asimple diagram with the following details:
the piping lengths and elbow angles required between
the pump and the delivery point at the outlet
the height from the top of the pumping fluid to
the outlet.

Figure 9: A simple pumping configuration diagram.13

Solution 2 Design a new system

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Ask yourself and your designers the following questions:

Can the system be designed with less bends?
Can the system be designed with more shallow bends?
Is it worthwhile moving the pump or the plant
equipment closer to each other?
Is an alternative pipe material or diameter more suitable?
Is there a more suitable valve? Is a valve required?
A short, fat and straight run of pipe will give less
resistance and hence require less pumping energy
than a long, narrow and bent run of pipe. Benefits
ofsimplified pipework are:
increased floor space (less piping overall)
reduced piping maintenance
easier maintenance
improved performance.
Plastic and glass piping provides the least resistance
and commercial steel is smoother than galvanised iron
or concrete.
5.4.2 Select the correct pump
Pumps are generally selected on their ability to meet
specific requirements of flow rate and system head
from a wide range of types and models. Efficiency,
duty point, suction inlet conditions, operating life and
maintenance are also elements to be considered in
theselection process.
There are two main categories of pumps, classified
bytheir basic principles of operation and the way they
add energy to a fluid:

Centrifugal pumps are the most common and popular

pump type used in industry because they have good
performance, are typically low in cost, have low
maintenance requirements and long operating lives.
Centrifugal pumps are generally divided into three
classes: radial flow, mixed flow, and axial flow,
Figure10, gives a graphical indication of typical
centrifugal pump types and ranges.
1000
500
300
200
100
50
Total
head (m)
30

Centrifugal

20
10

Mixed flow

5
3

Axial flow

2
1
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.5 1

10 20 30 50 100 200 500 1000

Capaciy (m/min)

Figure 10: Centrifugal pump types and ranges.14

Of the centrifugal pumps, mixed flow can be used
in mid-range operation and axial flow is used for low
head and high speeds. Refer to section 4.5 for more
information on pump types and selection.

Rotodynamic pumps (centrifugal, peripheral or

specialtype) these speed up the fluid through a
rotating impeller, propeller or rotor and convert this
kinetic energy to pressure.
Positive displacement pumps (reciprocating or rotary
type) squeeze the fluid directly through a reciprocating
plunger, piston or diaphragm, or a rotary gear, screw
or vane.

Solution 2 Design a new system

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Table 5 gives an indication of the efficiencies of different

pump types for different flow requirements.
Table 5: Pumping efficiency guide.13
Flow (gpm)

End Suction
(Incl. vertical &
close impeller
types) (%)

100

Vertical
Multistage
& Horizontal
Multistage/Close
Coupled (close
impeller types)
(%)

Submersible
(semi open and
open impeller
types (%)

Processor Pump
(open impeller
types)
(%)

50 - 60 -

55 - 75

48 - 55

48 - 52

110 - 250

65 - 75

73 - 76

68 - 75

48 - 55

48 - 52

300 - 450

75 - 80

75 - 79

70 - 75

55 - 65

48 - 52

460 - 600

78 - 82

75 - 79

55 - 65

48 - 52

700 - 1000

80 - 85

78 - 82

65 - 72

48 - 52

1100 - 1500

83 - 87

78 - 82

60 - 68

1600 - 2500

83 - 88

78 - 83

60 - 70

2600 - 3600

80 - 86

70 - 75

3700 - 4000

82 - 86

75 - 80

>5000

80 - 88

75 - 80

Solution 2 Design a new system

Horizontal
/ Vertical
split casing
(centrifugal and
close impeller
types) (%)

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A pump characteristic curve is a graphical representation

of how the pumps operating parameters, head,
power and efficiency, vary with flow. This gives a good
indication of a pumps performance. Manufacturers
generally provide a chart that indicates the range flow
rate and system head for a particular pump and they
can be a good resource when selecting a pump.
Figure 11 shows a simplified centrifugal pump
characteristic curve that illustrates the relationship
between the pump operating parameters.
Best efficiency point (BEP)
Design
duty

Head

Efficiency is the efficiency with which the shaft

power from the pump drive (often a motor)
is converted into pressure and flow, normally
expressedas a percentage (%).
Flow (Q) is the rate of flow delivered by the pump
through the pump discharge, normally expressed
inlitres per second (L/s).
Pump curves also indicate pump size and type,
operating speed (in rpm) and impeller size (in mm or inches).
They also show the pumps BEP. The pump operates
most cost effectively when the operating point is close
to the BEP refer to section 4.5.2.
The duty point of a pump is identified by the intersection
of the system resistance curve and the pump curve as
shown in Figure 12 below.

Power

Pump curve

System
curve

Efficiency

NPSH R

Duty point

Head

Flow

Figure 11: A simplified centrifugal pump

characteristic curve.9
Where:
Head (H) is the equivalent pressure differential
generated by the pump between the pump discharge
(or outlet) and the pump suction (or inlet), normally
expressed in metres (m) or feet (ft).

Static
head
Rate of flow

Figure 12: The duty point of a pump.

0
3

Power (P) is the power absorbed by the pump to

generate the pressure and flow, normally expressed
inkilowatts (kW) or bhp.

Solution 2 Design a new system

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A pump might need to cover several duty points, of

whichthe largest flow rate and/or system head will
determine the rated duty for the pump. The duration
of operation at the different duty points should be
considered in selecting the most efficient pump for
thespecific requirements.
Software packages are currently available to assist
in the pumping component selection process.
Thesoftware uses the input of fluid properties,
systemconfiguration and data provided by the pump
manufacturers to determine friction losses, generate
the system resistance curves and to provide a listing
of suitable pumps. The software is often linked
to pumpselection software from that particular
manufacturer. The software, in some cases, can
allowthe evaluation of operating costs.

5.5 Step 5: Iteratively improve

your design
Once a first-pass system design has been completed,
the designer should go over the design again and
revisit some of the trade-offs that were inevitably made.
Savings from individual decisions are not necessarily
cumulative and some efficiency options will have a
quicker payback than others.

Solution 2 Design a new system

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6 Summary of design considerations

for pumping systems
Table 6 summarises design considerations for components of pumping systems.
Table 6: Design considerations for efficient pumping systems.
Component

Design Considerations

System
considerations

Ensure a whole-system approach is used

Minimise pumping demand:
Reduce pumping needs through good plant design
Reduce leaks
Lower pumping system flow rate
Lower the operating pressure
Choose efficient pumping components
Use the latest energy prices in calculation of operating costs

Controls and operating

philosophy

Consider variable-speed drives for flow management

rather than throttling valves
Put pressure or flow sensors in the location that will
help ensure process requirements are met without
excess pumping energy
Record system trend data
Provide metering of components (such as flows, kWh)

Pump stations

Consider multiple size pumps for varying flows

Pay attention to pipework design with multiple pumps

Piping system
configuration

Maximise pipe diameter

Optimise pipe layout to minimise pressure loss
Minimise pressure losses through valves and fittings
Minimise bypass flow rates

Throttling controls

Avoid bypass lines

Avoid throttle valves
Optimise use of throttling and adjustable/
variable speed drives

Summary of design considerations for pumping systems

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Component

Design Considerations

Pumps and motors

Ensure high motor efficiency

Ensure high pump efficiency
Ensure pump operates close to its BEP
Dont oversize pump
Ensure the right impeller size
Ensure the right pump type (axial, centrifugal and so on)
Ensure compatibility with variable-speed drives
Check sealing method (gland packing, mechanical
seal and so on)

Operations and
maintenance

Put a maintenance schedule in place

Design for easy maintenance

Service
providers

Select a service provider that understands energy

efficiency and helps you with solutions

Summary of design considerations for pumping systems

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7 Selecting a service provider

Knowing your needs sounds simple enough, but

canbe a hard thing to convey. Before approaching a
supplier to assist you with an energy efficient pumping
system, try to articulate the key issues in a specification,
however brief. Some things you may wish to consider
would be:
What energy price(s) should be used in the system
design analysis? This will affect the payback on
energy efficiency options.
What scope of options do I want considered?
Do I have any capital budget constraints?
Do I have any operating cost targets?
What level of risk am I prepared to take on new
technologies?
What level of system redundancy is required?
Do I want an energy efficiency specialist to act
asan adviser?
What equipment restrictions are there
(forexample, motor or pump brands, electrical
wiring specifications)?
A pump supplier, or pump system designer, has a
veryimportant role they will be determining how
muchyou will pay for operating costs in the coming
years. Here are some key questions to ask them:
Will the provider take a whole system approach?
Will they undertake a site visit to investigate
requirements or the existing system?
Will they help to minimise the pumping requirements
to begin with?
What control philosophy will be used for pump circuits
and what effect will this have on energy consumption?
Do they know the energy costs and the impact of the
proposed system on your bills?
Are they taking a life cycle approach to system
optimisation, including consideration of long-run
energy costs, energy-efficient plant and equipment,
larger pipes, material selection and so on?

Selecting a service provider

Will they provide a detailed design and calculated

overall efficiency for the system?
Will they guarantee efficiency performance?
Will the systems be over-designed what would the
energy penalty be and how can this be minimised?
How will the energy consumption vary with fluctuating
pumping demand (ideally energy consumption should
vary linearly with pumping requirements)?
What software (if any) will they be using and can this
be used to optimise the system?
What basic services do they offer?
Do they provide professional technical support and
after sales service?
Do they have complete workshop facilities and
onsite service?
Is there a guaranteed level of professional
workmanship?
Do they have a supply of quality pumps, spare parts
and provide service?
Do they provide an emergency service response?
Will they take care of parts shipping?
What training and experience do the staff have?
Are they qualified to work on energy-efficient
pumping systems?
Can they service and install equipment to optimise
for energy efficiency?
What energy efficient installations have they
completed in the past?
What energy efficiency improvements have they
successfully made to other systems and what were
the results?

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Appendix A Glossary

Term

Meaning

adjustable speed
drives (ASDs)

Devices that allow control of a pumps rotational

speed; including mechanical devices such as
hydraulic clutches and electronic devices such as
eddy current clutches and variable frequency drives

backpressure

The pressure on the discharge side of the pump

bearing A device that supports a rotating shaft, allowing

it to spin, while keeping it from translating in the radial
direction; a thrust bearing keeps a shaft from translating
in the axial direction
best efficiency point Commonly used to describe the point at which a
(BEP) centrifugal pump is operating at its highest efficiency,
transferring energy from the prime mover to the system
fluid with the least amount of losses
brake horsepower The amount of power (measured in units of
horsepower) delivered to the shaft of a motor driven
piece of equipment
cavitation A phenomenon commonly found in centrifugal pumps
in which the system pressure is less than the vapour
pressure of the fluid, causing the formation and violent
collapse of tiny vapour bubbles
centrifugal pump A pump that relies on a rotating, vaned disk attached
to a driven shaft; the disk increases fluid velocity,
which translates to increased pressure
deadheading
A condition in which all the discharge from a pump is
closed off
efficiency In a pump, the efficiency with which the shaft power
applied (not the power to the motor) is converted to
flow and head; motor efficiency is the electrical
equivalent of this parameter for the motor

Appendix A Glossary

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Best Practice Guide

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Term

Meaning

flow The quantity of water passing an observation point;

for pumped liquids the term mass flow is often used
and refers to the mass of liquid passing per unit time
(however, it is more common to use volume flow;
that is, the volume passing per unit time
friction losses Pressure losses caused purely by the resistance of the
pipework and system, which must be added to the
static head to obtain the total system resistance note
that friction losses vary with flow rate and that they
occur in pump inlet pipework as well as outlet pipework
head

A measure of pressure (expressed in metres or feet)

indicating the height of a column of system fluid that
has an equivalent amount of potential energy

heat exchanger

A device that transfers heat from one fluid to another

impeller A centrifugal pump component that rotates on the

pump shaft and increases the pressure on a fluid by
adding kinetic energy
life cycle cost (LCC) The total lifetime cost to purchase, install, operate,
maintain and dispose of a piece of equipment or asset
assessed using present energy prices, expected
annual energy price increase (inflation), discount rate,
interest rate and expected equipment life
(calculation period). Calculations should also include
downtime and environmental costs
mechanical seal A mechanical device for sealing the pump/shaft
interface (as opposed to packing)
motor An electric machine that uses either alternating current
(a.c.) or direct current (d.c.) electricity to spin a shaft
that is typically coupled to a pump. Occasionally,
however, mechanisms such as a slider/crank convert
this rotation to axial movement to power piston pumps
motor controller

Appendix A Glossary

An electric switchbox that energises and deenergises

an electric motor

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Best Practice Guide

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Term

Meaning

multi-stage pumps Pumps which contain several impellers, each feeding

its output to the next stage in a serial fashion in order
to generate pressures higher than a single-stage pump
can achieve
net positive suction The total head at the pump inlet above vapour pressure;
head (NPSH) it usually has a subscript: NPSHR is the NPSH required
by a pump at its inlet to prevent it from cavitating NPSHA
is the NPSH available from the inlet configuration in use.
To avoid cavitation, NPSHA must be greater than NPSHR
operating point The point on a pump characteristic where the head/flow
curve is crossed by the system resistance curve; this
will change if the pump performance changes
(for example, through wear) or if the system resistance
changes (for example, as a valve is opened or closed)
power Output from a motor is equal to the input power
multiplied by the motor efficiency it is this output
which is the power absorbed by a pump, that is, the
power value which features on pump characteristics
packing A form of a pump seal that prevents or minimises
leakage from the pump stuffing box. Packing is usually
a flexible, self-lubricated material that fits around the
pump shaft, allowing it to spin while minimising the
escape of system fluid between the shaft and the
pump housing
preferred operating region The region on a pump curve where flow remains well
controlled within a range of capacities, within which
hydraulic loads, vibration or flow separation will not
significantly affect the service life of the pump
performance curve A curve that plots the relationship between flow and
head for a centrifugal pump the vertical axis contains
the values of head while the horizontal axis contains
flow rates. Since flow rate varies with head in a
centrifugal pump, performance curves are used to
select pumps that meet the needs of a system

Appendix A Glossary

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Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

Term

Meaning

pressure Force per unit area; commonly used as an indicator of

fluid energy in a pumping system (expressed in kilograms
per square centimetre or pounds per square inch)
prime mover A machine, usually an electric motor, that provides
the motive force driving a pump
rated duty The flow and head that are specified on the pump
nameplate they should be close to the values
corresponding to the peak efficiency of the pump
recirculation A flow condition which occurs during periods of low
flow, usually below the minimum flow requirement of
a pump, causing cavitation-like damage, usually to the
pressure side of an impeller vane
seals

Prevent water leaking outwards along the pump shaft

either packed glands or mechanical seals

specific gravity The ratio of the density of a fluid to the density of water
at standard conditions
static head The head of water a pump must overcome before it will
produce any flow; it is a result of the height difference
between the suction water level and delivery water level
throttling Used to impose a restriction in a pumping system, often
by means of a valve to control the flow through the system
total head A measure of the total energy imparted to the fluid by a
centrifugal pump, which includes static pressure
increase and velocity head
valve A device used to control fluid flow in a piping system
there are many types of valves with different flow control
characteristics, sealing effectiveness and reliability
vapour pressure The force per unit area that the fluid exerts in an effort
to change the phase from a liquid to a vapour; it is a
function of a fluids chemical and physical properties,
and its temperature
variable-speed drive (VSD) A way of controlling the speed of a motor, usually
electronically using an inverter; the speed can be varied
manually, but is more often controlled via a signal from
the process, for example, pressure, flow or level
viscosity The resistance of a fluid to flow when subjected to
shear stress

Appendix A Glossary

36

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

Appendix B
FurtherReading / References
Motor Solution Online System Optimisation Guide
Optimising pump and fan applications, Australian
Greenhouse Office, March 2006.
www.greenhouse.gov.au/motors
Pump System Assessment Tool (PSAT), US
Department of Energy Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy.
www1.eere.energy.gov./industry/bestpractices/motors.
html
Variable Speed Driven Pumps Best Practice Guide,
British Pump Manufacturers Association,
Gambica Association.
Variable Speed Pumping; A guide to successful
applications, Executive Summary, US Department
ofEnergy Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,
Hydraulic Institute and Europump, May 2004.
www1.eere.energy.gov./industry/bestpractices/motors.
html

Appendix B Further Reading / References

37

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

References
1

 ase Studies, from various sources, published by

C
Pump Systems Matter.
www.pumpsystemsmatter.org

 ood Practice Guide 249: Energy Savings in Industrial

G
Water Pumping Systems, prepared by ETSU for the
Department of Environment, Transport and Regions,
US, September 1998.

Improving Pumping System Performance:

ASourcebook for Industry, Section Edition
USDepartment of Energy Energy Efficiency
andRenewable Energy and Hydraulic Institute,
US, May 2006. www1.eere.energy.gov./industry/
bestpractices/motors.html

10

 igh Efficiency AC motors,

H
Sustainability Victoria, Australia.

11

 ump Life Cycle Costs; A Guide to LCC Analysis

P
for Pumping Systems, Executive Summary US
Department of Energy Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Hydraulic Institute and
Europump, January 2001.
www1.eere.energy.gov./industry/bestpractices/
motors.html

 S/NZS 1359.5:2004 Part 5: Three-phase Cage

A
Induction Motors High Efficiency and Minimum
Energy Performance Standards (MEPS).

12

 EPS for Three Phase Electric Motors

M
from 0.72kW to <185kW
www.environment.gov.au/settlements/
energyefficiency/motors/meps.html

Rob Stewart Hydro Tasmania Consulting

13

 trategies to Improve Pump Efficiency and

S
Life Cycle Performance, Mike Pemberton.
www.industrialefficiencyalliance.org

 umping Tip Sheets, US Department of Energy

P
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,
US, September 2005 May 2007.
www1.eere.energy.gov./industry/bestpractices/
motors.html

 atural Edge Project, Whole System Design Suite

N
Unit 6 Worked Example 1 Industrial Pumping
Systems, prepared for Department of Environment
and Water Resources, Australia, July 2007.
www.naturaledgeproject.net/documents/
ESSP/TDP/WSDS/ESSP%20WSDS%20%20Unit%
206%20Binder.pdf

14

 nergy Efficiency and Conservation Guidelines, Part 1

E
Electrical Energy-Use Equipment, Ch 8 Pumps, pp
103124, prepared by Pusat Tenaga Malaysia for the
Malaysian Industrial Energy Efficiency Improvement
Project, July 2007.
www.ptm.org.my

 ustralian Pump Technical Handbook, Third Edition,

A
Australian Pump Manufacturers Association Ltd, 1987

 nited States Motor Systems Market Opportunities

U
Assessment, Department of Energys Office of
Industrial Technology, US, December 1998.

Appendix B Further Reading / References

Sustainability Victoria would like to acknowledge

Flowserve Pty Ltd for their review of this guide.

38

Best Practice Guide

Pumping Systems

For further information and enquiries, please contact

Sustainability Victoria:
Urban Workshop
Level 28, 50 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne
Victoria 3000
Ph: +61 (03) 8626 8700
Fax: +61 (03) 9663 1007
Email: info@sustainability.vic.gov.au
www.sustainability.vic.gov.au

Energy Efficiency Best Practice Guide Pumping

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Acknowledgments
Sustainability Victoria would like to acknowledge
Climate Managers for preparing this report and
Flowserve Pty Ltd for their review of this guide.